Des Moines, Iowa – Severe thunderstorms are expected to develop across Iowa on Monday, with the greatest threat focused on northeast and parts of central Iowa during the afternoon and evening. Damaging wind gusts will be the primary hazard, but large hail, torrential rainfall, and a few tornadoes will also be possible as storms strengthen and move southeast.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines and the Storm Prediction Center, much of northeast Iowa is under a Level 3 of 5 (Enhanced Risk) for severe thunderstorms Monday, while portions of central Iowa are included in a Level 2 of 5 (Slight Risk). Storms are expected to develop throughout the day before becoming more intense during the afternoon and evening hours.
Communities including Waterloo, Mason City, Charles City, Decorah, Cedar Rapids, Marshalltown, Ames, Des Moines, and Iowa City should closely monitor changing weather conditions. Storms are forecast to move southeast at around 35 mph, potentially producing widespread damaging winds capable of downing trees, damaging power lines, and causing scattered power outages.
Large hail may accompany the strongest storms, and isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out. Heavy rainfall could also produce localized flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas, especially where storms repeatedly track over the same locations.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture and other loose items before storms arrive, charge mobile devices, and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings Monday afternoon and evening. Those with outdoor plans should be prepared to move to sturdy shelter immediately if severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued.
The severe weather threat is expected to continue into Monday evening before storms gradually move out of the region. Additional severe thunderstorm watches or tornado watches may be issued as confidence increases in storm development and intensity.
